AIRAH's PreLoved Buildings Conference explores aspects of retrofitting Australia's existing building stock. The program of speakers covers everything from reviews to case studies, indoor environment quality (IEQ) to the preservation of history. [ + ]

SolarMax has expanded its board of management, announcing Andreas Mader as its new chief technical officer (CTO) and Thomas Staubli as its new chief operating officer (COO). These two positions have been newly created. [ + ]

The IEC has issued the revised CFL testing and performance requirements standard IEC 60969 Ed 2, 'Self-ballasted compact fluorescent lamps for general lighting services - Performance requirements' as a Committee Draft for Vote. [ + ]

enLighten Australia has launched the Chamaeleon LED light contractor web portal to help electrical and fire contractors grow their revenues. [ + ]

Electrical safety authorities have warned that small portable generators imported into Australia may have unsuitable battery charging outlets. Electrical contractors are being urged to ensure their portable generators have the correct outlet and leads. [ + ]

NBN Co has hired Greg Adcock to take up the position of Chief Operating Officer (COO) with immediate effect. Adcock will be a member of the executive committee and report to the CEO. [ + ]

Royal Philips has announced the appointment of Rob Fletcher as general manager of Philips Lighting ANZ, effective immediately. [ + ]

The race is on to determine which New Zealand town will win the fastest broadband speeds in the Southern Hemisphere in Chorus's Welcome to Gigatown competition. [ + ]

ASHRAE and the Indoor Air Quality Association (IAQA) have joined forces to promote better indoor air quality in the built environment. [ + ]

SEA has welcomed two new board members: Rodney Littlejohn, managing director of Tersum Energy, and Antony Piccinini of FRV Services Australia. [ + ]

Australia's vocation education and training (VET) system is having to compensate for stagnant literacy and numeracy standards in Year 12 students, E-Oz Energy Skills Australia has warned. [ + ]

Communications Alliance is seeking comments on a scheduled review of the 'Requirements for installation of temporary field telecommunications customer cabling for defence purposes' standard (AS/ACIF S035:2008). [ + ]

NECA supports the decision for a judicial enquiry into the four unnecessary deaths during the rollout of the home insulation program. [ + ]

ABB, Bosch, Cisco and LG have signed a memorandum of understanding as part of plans to establish a consortium to provide a software platform for smart homes. The plan is subject to approval by the antitrust authorities. [ + ]

The value of total construction activity is expected to fall in the next few years, a new report shows. However, the NBN rollout will mean plenty of construction work in the telecommunications sector. [ + ]